Brian T. Smith has been named associate vice president for finance for the University of Michigan.
His appointment, effective July 15, was approved Thursday by the Board of Regents. Smith succeeds Nancy Hobbs, who retired from the university last November.
“Brian’s extensive finance background, particularly in higher education, makes him an ideal fit for this key position,” says Kevin Hegarty, executive vice president and chief financial officer. “Finance is involved in nearly every facet of U-M’s operations and, throughout his career, Brian has demonstrated a strong commitment to strategically partnering with colleagues to provide exemplary service.”
In the position, Smith will have responsibility for the university’s central financial functions including purchasing, accounting, payroll, risk management and sponsored programs. Additionally, he will be responsible for the externally audited financial statements, financial analysis, internal controls, tax management and treasury functions.
As associate vice president, Smith will report to Hegarty.
“I’m extremely honored to join one of the world’s leading universities in this role and look forward to helping Finance continue in its efforts to support U-M’s missions of teaching, research, and patient care with a broad suite of financial services,” says Smith.
Smith currently serves as a senior assistant vice chancellor and treasurer at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. During his career at UNC, Smith also held the positions of assistant vice chancellor for finance and accounting, interim associate vice chancellor for finance, director of treasury and risk management services, director of treasury operations and university debt manager.
Before joining UNC, he held management positions at Wachovia Bank for 11 years.
Smith is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics.
